"I love the hunt for information—figuring out where a threat came from, what’s behind it, and who’s behind it."
How it all began
I have always been fascinated with computers and technology. I even disassembled a PC when I was a kid. Later, in high school, I enrolled in networking courses. That lead to my first certification, and I never looked back.
It was during my training for other certifications that I discovered cybersecurity. I was instantly fascinated. While attending cybersecurity community brunches, I shared experiences with other women in IT and learned about various security jobs.
Today, I work as a Senior Network Security Analyst. Through it all, one thing has remained true — my initiative has continued to shape my career and open new doors.
An unexpected opportunity arises
I decided I wanted to transition into cybersecurity. And when Cisco announced its Global Cybersecurity Scholarship Program (now discontinued), I didn’t wait for an engraved invitation. I pounced on the opportunity. I became one of the first persons to pass the exam and earn a CCNA CyberOps (now CyberOps Associate) certification.
Midway through my CCNA CyberOps studies, I learned of an opportunity at another company, working as its SOC operator. Busy as I was, I made time for the interview. The employer was impressed with how wellinformed I was. I knew the subject matter inside and out because it was precisely the material I had just studied during the Cisco course.
An unexpected opportunity arises
About Jenny
Certifications
CyberOps Associate
Location
Greater Ottawa, Canada
Hobbies
Knitter & Crocheter
Videogamer
Painter
What does having a Cisco Certification mean to you?
"The guidance I gained from earning the certification helped— in near real time—to determine what was happening on the job, when I became an SOC operator."
So, what’s next on my long list of aspirations? I have my eyes trained on a Cisco CyberOps Professional certification. I’ve been in the industry for a while now, still love to learn, and the CyberOps Professional could serve as the pinnacle on my certification resume.
Jenny Guay
What would you tell your younger self?
I would tell myself to be sure to network. Take any chance to attend virtual meetups, engage with the people you admire on social media, and apply for any security job to gain interviewing experience.
What would you tell a friend?
I'd tell them to know your stuff! Print out the exam objectives to identify your areas of need. I'd also suggest finding a study group, keep staying curious, and explore the knowledge rabbit holes.
Jenny's journey
Career path
Current role
Senior network security analyst
Senior network security analysts identify, assess, and oversee remediation of network security risks.
Information Security Analyst
SOC Operator
IT Specialist
Certification path
Most recent certification
CyberOps Professional
The Cisco Certified CyberOps Professional certification builds on the Cisco Certified CyberOps Associate certification. The program elevates the skills needed to address nuanced security challenges, and prepares professionals for incident response roles, cloud security, and other active defense security roles.
The Cisco Certified CyberOps Associate certification validates the tactical knowledge that Security Operations Center (SOC) teams need to manage cybersecurity threats. The exam covers security concepts, security monitoring, host-based analysis, network intrusion analysis, and security policies and procedures.
"You can do anything. You just need to decide to do it, have the will to do it, and never give up. Be confident in yourself and stop the barriers in your mind."
"I’ve gained more knowledge and different skill sets. I’ve opened myself up for more opportunities. And it’s a validation of me and what I’ve learned."
"I derive a great deal of pride from having these certs. Certifications are a box I can stand on in front of the room and be the expert. They help me to stand up with confidence and authority."
Consulting engineer
CCNA, CCNP Data Center, CCNP Enterprise
Has earning a Cisco certification positively changed your life or career, or both? Do you think your Cisco certification story would help encourage other people to earn their Cisco certification? If so, we want to talk to you!
